While most sophomores in high school are focused on getting the learners permit to drive, Anaheim (Calif.) Servite athlete D.J. Shoemate already knows where he's getting his college degree from.

This afternoon, Shoemate became a Trojan a full year before he could be officially recruited by any school. Shoemate even committed before his friend and teammate, Chris Galippo.

"Yup, it's not a rumor," said Galippo, who verbally committed to USC in January. "Pete (Carroll) came down to the school today to watch some film on D.J. and me. I know they were talking about offering him a scholarship before, but today was the day he committed. He (D.J.) came up to me a little bit ago and said, 'I'm a Trojan'."

At 6-foot-1, 205-pounds, Shoemate has played running back, wide receiver and safety for Servite during his brief high school football career. He could end playing any of those three positions in college.

Last season, Shoemate had 464 yards rushing and 10 touchdowns to go with 35 receptions for 646 yards and five touchdowns.

Shomate becomes the first sophomore to ever commit to USC in the Pete Carroll era.

"Yeah, I thought I was one of the fastest commitments they ever had, but he beat me by a whole year," laughed Galippo. "He's a great player, and we're (USC) lucky to get him. It's just crazy to think he commit when he did."

USCFootball.com will have more on this breaking news in our premium report later today.